Page 25 - April-June 2024 Edition

| TRAVEL FEATURE sweet and crunchy Ugandan passion fruit. sensory experience. And as if that wasn’t
enough later along the trail I was shown how
An ever-changing array of local dishes,
By Denise & Gabriele Passarella (Travelingminds Couple) each a testament to the region's culinary vanilla is farmed, harvested and then
heritage, graced our plates. processed – truly an experience worth
travelling for all on its own!
UNVEILING PARADISE: One particularly memorable dinner was
served by the riverside, the gentle murmur
A TRANSFORMATIVE ESCAPE AT RUBALIKA SAFARI LODGE & FARM of the Dura River providing a serene
backdrop. Candlelight flickered on tables
adorned with locally sourced fish cooked in
The dusty road stretched before a fragrant tomato and herb sauce. The
me, a testament to the Ugandan tangy zest perfectly complemented the
wilderness waiting to be explored. delicate sweetness of the fish, while roasted
The anticipation crackled in the air, vegetables seasoned with a touch of
promising adventure. As I crested a smokiness from the open fire added
final rise, the scene that unfolded another layer of complexity. The night
was a breathtaking tapestry of concluded with a delightful surprise: a
rolling hills carpeted in lush platter of sliced vanilla bean from the farm,
greenery. Vibrant wildflowers and its intoxicating aroma a promise of sweet
traditional crops intermingled, while treats to come, fulfilled in the form of
the majestic snow-capped peaks homemade vanilla ice cream served the
of the Rwenzori Mountains pierced following day.
the azure sky, like celestial pearls.
Beyond the boundaries of Kibale National
This wasn't just the entrance to a Park, Rubalika offers a wealth of activities
lodge; it was the gateway to an that broadened my perspective. One
unforgettable Ugandan experience. morning, I embarked on a community,
nature, and farm walk guided by Richard, a
My arrival at Rubalika Safari Lodge & Farm was a sensory feast. The rhythmic beats of drums local-born guide trained and employed by
and local dances by the Rubalika troupe, funded by the lodge and its guests, filled the air. The the lodge. As we ventured deeper into the
performers, adorned with intricate beadwork shimmering under the Ugandan sun, showcased verdant embrace of the farm, the air grew
the region's rich cultural heritage with captivating grace and power. Their infectious energy was cool and crisp, carrying the earthy scent of
a fitting welcome, and I found myself swaying to the rhythm. the rich soil. Richard's infectious enthusiasm
and deep knowledge of the local flora and
The lodge itself was a charming blend of rustic elegance and modern comfort. Locally fauna brought the Ugandan ecosystem to
sourced materials and traditional Ugandan crafts seamlessly integrated with the surrounding life. We marveled at the vibrant plumage of
landscape. My canvas cottage, nestled amidst the verdant expanse of the farm, offered a exotic birds flitting through the trees and
haven of tranquility. Stepping inside, I was greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of encountered a playful family of black and
farmlands rolling towards the horizon, merging with the dense emerald embrace of Kibale white colobus monkeys swinging from
Forest National Park in the distance. The only sound that disturbed the peace was the gentle branch to branch, their long tails trailing
murmur of the River Dura rapids, harmonizing with the natural symphony of the Ugandan behind them like elegant streamers. A shy
countryside. mongoose darted through the undergrowth,
its beady eyes watchful and curious.
One of the defining features of Rubalika was its unwavering commitment to farm-to-table
dining. Freshness wasn't a buzzword here; it was a philosophy woven into the very fabric of the Another enriching experience was the
culinary experience. From the moment I sat down for breakfast, vibrant colors and intoxicating coffee experience. The rich aroma of freshly
aromas emanating from the plates around me sparked my appetite. Juices bursting with the roasted coffee beans filled the air as I
essence of freshly squeezed local fruits – passion fruit, pineapple, and mango – cleansed the learned about the meticulous journey of
palate and awakened the senses. Each bite of the breakfast spread, featuring perfectly Rubalika's coffee, from handpicking the ripe
cooked free-range eggs and fluffy homemade bread, was a revelation. Every meal at berries to the final brewing process. The
Rubalika was a journey celebrating the bounty of the farm and the expertise of the chefs. culmination of the experience was a
Lunchtime often found me gathered with fellow guests on the expansive veranda, its delightful coffee tasting session. Savoring
floorboards worn smooth by countless conversations and laughter shared over delicious meals. the rich, full-bodied flavor of Rubalika's
The veranda became an open-air sanctuary, offering a breathtaking panorama as we signature Robusta coffee, grown on the very
devoured colorful salads with a delightful mix of familiar and exotic vegetables, including the land I was standing on was an unforgettable

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